General
Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba Hands Over DVCAA Mantle to Prof. Buyinza
“Makerere has made me who I am today; it has nurtured me from a degree holder to a professor, and I will do all that is possible to support this institution” remarked Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba the outgoing Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) as he handed over office to the Acting DVCAA and Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The handover, held on 2nd August 2024 in the DVCAA’s Senate Building Office was presided over by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration (DVCFA), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
The ceremony was guided by Section F – d of The Uganda Public Service Standing Orders 2021 Edition as pronounced by the Director Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet. On hand to witness the ceremony were; Ag. Director Human Resources-Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Director Legal Affairs- Ms. Nanyondo Sumaiyah Sebuta, University Bursar-Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Ag. Director Research and Graduate Training-Assoc. Prof. Robert Wamala, Deputy University Librarian Dr. Ongaya Kizito, Principal Public Relations Officer-Ms. Ritah Namisango and members of the DVCAA and PR Offices.
Assoc. Prof. Kakumba’s term as DVCAA commenced on 1st December 2018 and ended on 30th November 2023, whereupon he was appointed in Acting Capacity until 31st May 2024. Thereafter, Prof. Buyinza was appointed in acting capacity for a period of six months effective 11th July 2024 to 10th January 2025 or until a substantive DVCAA is appointed whichever comes earlier.
Congratulating Assoc. Prof. Kakumba upon the successful completion of his term, Prof. Alinaitwe thanked God that he was able to deliver throughout his term and enable the university to progress especially through the COVID-19 period. “He has really achieved so many things for this institution.”
Prior to outlining some of the accomplishments during his term, Assoc. Prof. Kakumba said, “I am thankful to the Almighty God, to my supervisor Prof. Nawangwe and to my colleagues in top management, academic leaders, administrative and support staff, that I have worked with closely over the last five and a half years as the First Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)”.
Some of the accomplishments outlined include:
- Set-up and led the team that crafted a proposal to the MasterCard Foundation (MCF) leading to award of a grant totalling US$ 2,017,933 for the e-Learning Initiative
- Set-up and led the team that submitted a proposal to the MCF leading to award of a grant totalling US$ 45 million for Phase II of the MCF Scholars’ Programme 2023-2033
- Led the Committee that crafted a proposal and won a post-doctoral fellowship development grant from the Carnegie Corporation totalling US$ 1,250,000.
- Set-up and led team that received seed grant of US$ 49,044 from the University of Cambridge, and now finalising a full US$ 25 million proposal on Climate Change and Sustainability
- Led the Committee that crafted a proposal to the Carnegie Corporation leading to award of US$ 1,000,000 to secure capacity development of early career academics (SECA).
- Negotiated and secured high-level international training of four Staff and subsequently won a grant from ARUA-Carnegie, to establish the Mak Data Centre.
- Chaired Steering Committee that won a grant worth US$ 750,000 (2020-2022) and a successor grant worth US$ 750,000 (2023-2025) from the HP Foundation for building capacity in Impact Evaluation for Evidence-based Decisions (IEED).
- As the Institutional focal person for the African Universities Research Alliance (ARUA), championed Makerere’s hosting and participation in eleven (11) Africa-Europe Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRES).
- Negotiated and signed an MoU between Makerere and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) on 24th December 2020.
- Negotiated and Signed an MoU with Arizona State University (ASU) on 15th June 2023 to build capacity for Quality e-Learning infrastructure, staff training.
- Signed an MoU involving Makerere and five (5) other African Universities with the EU-CIVIS Universities Alliance for collaboration in research and innovations projects.
- Negotiated and signed an MoU with the University of Pretoria on 14th November 2021 for collaboration in training, joint research, innovations, technology transfer.
- Negotiated and signed an MoU with the University of Arizona on 19th April 2021 for a customised degree paths programme (CDP) and/or the world campus experience (WCE) programme.
- Signed a Consortium MoU involving Makerere and partner African Universities and autonomous research institutes, on 29th January 2021, for the establishment of the African Institute in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIIKS).
- Supported establishment of the MoU (signed on 21st February 2022) with the University Network for Strengthening Macro-Financial Resilience to Climate and Environmental Change.
- Conducted six (6) research management training workshops, presided over 100 research symposia and dissemination workshops, revitalised knowledge transfer outputs leading to increased scholarly publications from 900 peer-reviewed Journal Articles in 2020 to 1050 in 2021 and 1432 in 2022.
- Championed the institutionalisation and capacity development of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IoDEL) at Makerere.
- Set up a Taskforce during the CoVID-19 pandemic (in April 2020), to fast-track operationalisation of ODeL policy and framework.
- Championed the development and rolling-out of the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS); a “home-grown software system solution”.
- Revitalised the Makerere University Press (MakPress), successfully publish and launch a total of fifteen (15) book titles, while ten (10) titles are due this year, 2024.
- Provided leadership to establish institutional affiliations with training programmes at the National Defence College-Njeru, (2021); Uganda Military Academy, Kabamba, 2019/2020; Police Senior Command and Staff College-Bwebajja (2022); and IGAD Sheikh Veterinary School Somaliland (2020).
- Presided over the review of One Hundred Seventy-Six (176) existing programme curricula and thirty-five (35) new academic programmes.
- Presided over thirty-four (34) sessions of the Senate Academic Policies and Appeals Committee, and twenty-five (25) Senate Board of Research and Graduate Training.
- Presided over successful completion of annual students’ admissions for Makerere University with enrolment numbers (24,684 in 2019/2000); (19,257 in 2020/2021); (20,827 in 2021/2022); (5659 in 2022/2023); and (21597 in 2023/2024).
- Refurbished the e-Learning infrastructure with 85% of campus now connected on Wireless hotspots; distributed over 400 Laptop computers, projectors and smart-boards to academic units; scale-up of the e-Learning management system (MUELE).
- Coordinated and supervised the successful completion of the 69th, 70th, 71st, 72nd and 73rd graduation ceremonies of Makerere University. A total of 65,092 students (of whom 51% are female) have graduated in the last five (5) years.
In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Buyinza congratulated the outgoing DVCAA upon successfully completing his term of office, adding that the handover ceremony had underlined the need to document all undertakings during one’s term of office. He equally undertook to continue along the trajectory of academic excellence embarked on by his predecessor. “I commit to do all it takes to maintain and consolidate the achievements made by Makerere University during this previous term.”
Pomp and colour defined the opening day of the Makerere University’s 76th Graduation Ceremony as thousands gathered to celebrate academic excellence and new beginnings.
The historic ceremony has brought together scholars, families, friends and industry partners in a vibrant celebration of achievement and possibility. Throughout the four-day event, the University will confer degrees and award diplomas to 9,295 graduands in recognition of their dedication and hard work.
Among the graduates, 213 will receive Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 2,503 will graduate with Master’s degrees, and 6,343 will earn Bachelor’s degrees. In addition, 206 students will graduate with postgraduate diplomas, while 30 will be awarded undergraduate diplomas.
Of the total number of graduands, 4,262 are female and 5,033 are male. According to Vice Chancellor, this marks the first time in 15 years that male graduands have outnumbered their female counterparts.
The best overall graduand in the Sciences, Esther Ziribaggwa, graduated on the opening day with the Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation and an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.77.
The ceremony marks a proud moment for Makerere University as it continues to nurture top-tier professionals across diverse fields.
While presiding over the graduation, the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, on behalf of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, pointed out that Makerere University is a model institution, where leaders are nurtured, scholars are sharpened, and where dreams have been given direction.
In her address, Hon. Museveni, highlighted Government’s deliberate investment in research, innovation, and infrastructure to strengthen higher education in Uganda.
“The establishment of the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (RIF), supports high-impact research and innovation that directly contributes to national priorities and development. Through this initiative, thousands of researchers and innovators have pursued practical, scalable solutions that are transforming communities and key sectors across Uganda,” Mrs Museveni, said.
The Minister also noted that Parliament’s approved a USD 162 million concessional loan to upgrade science, technology, and innovation infrastructure at Makerere University. The funding will facilitate the construction of modern laboratories, smart classrooms, and state-of-the-art facilities for Engineering and Health Sciences, investments expected to position the University firmly within the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“Government has embarked on the construction of a National Stadium at Makerere University and other institutions of higher learning across the country. This will promote physical education, strengthen talent identification, and boost investment in the sports sector,”
Turning to the graduands, the Minister encouraged them to see themselves not merely as job seekers, but as job creators and solution-makers.
Uganda and Africa need innovators who will modernize agriculture; engineers who will build quality infrastructure; healthcare professionals who will strengthen health systems; and educators who will inspire the next generation,” the Honourable Minister said.
She reminded graduates that they are entering a rapidly changing world shaped by Artificial Intelligence, climate change, and shifting global markets. To thrive, she advised them to remain adaptable, creative, and committed to lifelong learning.
She also encouraged graduates interested in entrepreneurship to tap into the Government’s Parish Development Model, which provides community-based financing and production support.
Quoting Proverbs 3:5–6, the Minister urged the graduates to trust in God as they embark on their next chapter.
She extended special appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its 13-year partnership with Makerere University in expanding access to education and empowering young people in Uganda and beyond.
In his speech, the Chancellor of Makerere University, Dr Crispus Kiyonga, urged graduands to harness research, innovation and technology to drive Uganda’s transformation.
“This is a milestone in your lives. You have invested time, discipline and hard work to attain these qualifications. It is important that you derive value from this achievement, not only for yourselves, but for your families and for society.” Dr Kiyonga, said.
Dr. Kiyonga expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued financial support to the University, particularly the funding allocated under MakRIF, which he described as critical in strengthening the institution’s research capacity.
“Research plays a very vital role in the development of any community. Makerere as the oldest University in the country is doing a significant amount of research, However, more work is required to mobilize additional resources to further strengthen research at the University.” Dr Kiyonga, noted.
Acknowledging the challenges of a competitive job market, Dr. Kiyonga encouraged graduates to think beyond traditional employment pathways.
“It is true that the job market may not absorb all of you immediately. But the knowledge you have acquired is empowering. You can create work for yourselves, individually or in teams.” Dr Kiyonga, said.
He advised the graduands to embrace discipline, integrity and adaptability in the workplace, and to take advantage of technology and digital platforms to innovate and respond to societal challenges.
“Every development challenge presents an opportunity. Believe that you can apply your knowledge to create solutions with impact.” He said.
Addressing the congregation, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the graduands, particularly staff and societal leaders on their respective achievements.
“I congratulate all our graduands upon reaching this milestone. In a special way I congratulate the members of staff, Ministers, and Members of Parliament that are graduating today as well as children and spouses of members of staff,” Prof Nawangwe, said.
In his speech, Prof Nawangwe, recognized outstanding PhD students, particularly members of staff. who completed their PhDs in record time without even taking leave from their duties.
He called upon graduates not to despise humble beginnings but rather reflect on the immense opportunities around them and rise to the occasion as entrepreneurs.
“You are all graduating with disciplines that are needed by society. We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment. Instead, reflect on the immense opportunities around you and rise to the occasion as an entrepreneur,” Prof Nawangwe, said.
Prof Nawangwe called upon the graduands of PhDs to use their degrees to transform the African continent.
“As you leave the gates of Makerere I urge you to put to good use the knowledge you have received from one of the best universities in the World to improve yourselves, your families, your communities, your Country and humanity. Let people see you and know that you are a Makerere alumnus because of the way you carry yourself in society with dignity and integrity. Put your trust in God and honour your parents and opportunities will be opened for you,” Prof Nawangwe, said.
Delivering a key note address, Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network Nairobi, Kenya ((ATPS). Reminded the graduates that a degree is not a finish line but the beginning of accountability. “The world is a complex, fast changing and deeply unequal. Degrees make you responsible for others not better than them,” Prof Ozor, said.
Makerere University has been selected to host the Africa Office of the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP). The significant milestone that underscores Makerere’s role in fostering research, innovation, and global collaborations across the continent was announced at a meeting of the University’s Central Management with an AAP delegation on 23rd February 2026.
Makerere’s selection was based on the University’s robust commitment, alignment with the AAP’s Strategic Plan, and proven ability to manage consortium activities. The AAP, which was initiated by Michigan State University (MSU) in collaboration with Ten African Universities and agricultural policy research networks in 2016, targets critical challenges in education, youth empowerment, health and nutrition, agri-food systems, science and technology, water, energy, environment, and culture and society.
Addressing the delegation consisting of AAP Co-Directors from MSU, Dr. Jose Jackson-Malete and Dr. Amy Jamison, accompanied by newly-appointed Director of the AAP Africa Office, Dr. Racheal Ddungu Mugabi and Ms. Clare Cheromoi, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who appreciated the choice of Makerere to host the Africa Office said:
“One of the greatest challenges facing African universities is PhD training, particularly supervisory capacity. Through partnerships such as the Alliance for African Partnership we can leverage international expertise to strengthen supervision—whether through training supervisors or through joint supervision arrangements.”
Prof. Nawangwe equally applauded joint initiatives such as the Grant Writing and Publication project, which gave rise to the establishment of a Writing Centre that he said can be used to build capacity in AAP member universities with Makerere as the hub. Officially launched on 21st March 2023, the project is living up to its expectation of becoming a springboard for strong postdoctoral collaborative research for both institutions and other US universities.
Dr. Titus Awokuse, Vice Provost and Dean for International Studies and Programs at Michigan State University (MSU) who attended virtually, reiterated that Makerere’s selection reflects its long-standing commitment to advancing African higher education, research excellence, and meaningful global collaboration.
Reflecting on the origins of the Alliance for African Partnerships (AAP), Dr. Awokuse explained that nearly a decade ago, MSU initiated a transformative conversation in Atlanta centered on the question: How should we partner differently? From this dialogue emerged AAP—an Africa-centered consortium that now brings together 12 institutions across Africa and the United States.
He emphasized that AAP is grounded in equity, mutual benefit, shared leadership, and deep respect for African priorities and expertise. Since its founding, MSU has served as convener and key supporter, working with member institutions to strengthen research collaboration, promote faculty and student engagement, and address shared development priorities.
Dr. Awokuse underscored that AAP’s success is the result of collective vision and commitment, not the efforts of a single institution. He paid tribute to Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources for hosting the Africa Office in its early years and acknowledged the foundational leadership of the inaugural Africa Office Director.
He described the launch of the Africa Office at Makerere University as a significant milestone that reinforces Africa-led leadership, strengthens regional collaboration, and enhances responsiveness to emerging opportunities. MSU, he affirmed, remains fully committed to AAP and to working closely with Makerere and all consortium partners to expand collaborative research, nurture the next generation of scholars, and advance Africa-led solutions to global challenges.
The newly-appointed AAP Africa Office Director, Dr. Racheal Ddungu Mugabi is a member of faculty in the Department of Development Studies, Institute of Gender and Development Studies. Her work on intersectional inequalities in Uganda and other Global South regions uniquely positions her to drive collaborative research and partnerships at the Africa Office.
Initially founded by ten African Universities and MSU, AAP now comprises eleven African members including; the African Network of Agricultural Policy Institutes (ANAPRI)-Zambia, Egerton University-Kenya, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR)-Malawi, Makerere University-Uganda, United States International University-Africa-Kenya, Universite Cheikh Anta Diop-Senegal, Universite Yambo Ouologuem de Bamako-Mali, University of Botswana-Botswana, University of Dar es Salaam-Tanzania, University of Nigeria, Nsukka-Nigeria, and the latest, University of Pretoria-South Africa.
These Universites collaborate under Focal Points to advance policy-relevant research and sustainable development. Makerere University’s Focal Point is Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP).
Addressing the University Management, Dr. Jackson-Malete outlined the African Futures Research Leadership Program, which nurtures early career scholars through mentorship and skill-building as one of AAP’s flagship programs. She noted that the Program that prioritizes female participants or men committed to promoting women in higher education has for the first time during its fifth cohort admitted the first male, Dr. Alfadaniels Mabingo from the Department of Performing Arts and Film, Makerere University.
The AAP Africa Office at Makerere will coordinate activities, boost research collaboration, mobilize resources, and enhance global engagements for socio-economic transformation. This aligns with Makerere‘s broader goals of leveraging international expertise to build resilient institutions.
View more photos from the event: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCLjoA
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